Illinois drivers paying millions in late renewal fees

(KMOV.com) – Drivers in Illinois are being slammed with late license plate renewal fees after the state decided not to mail out reminders.

“I also just bought a new car and I wouldn’t want that to happen,” said Patricia Hamilton. She ended up paying the $20 late late fee after missing the deadline to renew her license plate. She believes the state is still responsible for sending out the reminders.

“I don’t understand why they wouldn’t do that anymore,” she said. “I actually did not have any idea until you told me.”

Illinois drivers have paid nearly $5 million in late fees in since January, more than double the amount paid during the same period last year. In March, $2 million was paid.

There is a bill pending before the legislature to suspend the late fees until renewal notices are sent out again. The Secretary of State's office supports that plan.

Scott Heatherly, 50, of Arnold, is charged with second-degree assault and first and second-degree property damage. Arnold Police say the charges stem from an assault which appears to have been brought on by road rage Friday night and was caught on surveillance camera.

Scott Heatherly, 50, of Arnold, is charged with second-degree assault and first and second-degree property damage. Arnold Police say the charges stem from an assault which appears to have been brought on by road rage Friday night and was caught on surveillance camera.